Florida Gators Football Has Begun in Gainesville

Almost three months ago the Florida Gators defeated the heavy shooting Oklahoma Sooners on a very special January night in the BCS National Championship Game.  Urban Meyer and the Gators proved their dominance to the college football world.

Their defense, lead by junior linebacker Brandon Spikes, was stout as ever. Their offense, lead by junior quarterback Tim Tebow, played like there was no tomorrow. They came, they saw, they conquered. It was a night the Gator Nation will soon not forget.

Fast-forward to Mid-March and the boys are back in town. 

Florida returns nearly all of last season’s football team, to no doubt be the undisputed preseason No. 1. Of course, there are some changes from last season. Percy Harvin decided to forego his senior season as a Gator for the riches and glory of the NFL.

He will be missed as Florida’s hybrid running back/wide receiver. Harvin gave the offense momentum in many ways, but there are other players who are ready to step into the mix.

Chris Rainey and Jeffery Demps have the speed to rival Harvin. Although they may lack the incredible first step Harvin had, don't be fooled, these scat backs will be gone if given open holes up the middle, or out in space.

Florida also aquired a recruit who mimicks Harvin almost to a T. His name is Andre Debose, and he's looking to make a name for himself this coming season.

Florida also lost senior wide receiver Louis Murphy. He's been reliable, and has helped the Gators in many clutch situations. He will be missed as well, but hopefully they’ll see some of the younger guys step up.

Along with losing some key players, Florida lost their big name play-caller Dan Mullen. Mullen decided take the reigns as the Mississippi State Bulldogs’ head coach. Mullen’s been with head coach Urban Meyer since the Utah years, and he's a great offensive coordinator.

But Florida will not miss a beat with the promotion of Steve Addazio as offensive coordinator. Meyer said Addazio will call most of the plays, but as always it will be a group effort.

Meyer said wide receivers coach Billy Gonzales, running backs coach Kenny Carter, and tight ends coach John Hevesy have all been deeply involved in game-planning and play-calling, and would continue that trend with Addazio.

Losing Mullen also meant losing Florida's quarterbacks coach that left Tim Tebow and John Brantley to fend for themselves.

Not quite.

Urban Meyer brought in a super hire in Scot Loeffler. Loeffler has coached the likes of Tom Brady, Brian Griese, and Chad Henne while at Michigan.

I've also heard many spring practice reports that say Tebow has already begun improving his throwing motion and spiral in a mere two months working with Loeffler.  This is tremendous news, as fans know Tebow has a habit of throwing some wounded ducks.

Tebow always has had great accuracy, but not always with a pretty motion. This will not only help Florida, but it will help him in the NFL.

I have no doubts Florida will be as hot as ever this season. And by taking a look at their schedule, I only see a mere two or three threats. People may say "Remember Ole Miss!" but that was a different team.

That was a different Florida squad on the field. Now they have focus, passion, and have a flowing talent that is possibly one of the best the Gators have ever had.

Tebow's goal is to have an undefeated season. And when Tebow sets a goal, I believe he'll work as hard as possible to achieve it.

I believe he'll do what he does best. 

Win.